Mississippi River Deanery Retreat Offers Encouragement for Growing Parishes
Clergy of the Mississippi River Deanery gathered November 2–4, 2026, at Holy Resurrection Orthodox Church in Clinton, Mississippi, for their annual retreat. The gathering brought together prayer, theological reflection, practical resources for parish life, and fellowship among the deanery clergy.
A special cause for celebration came during the retreat when Fr. Athanasios “Thanassi” Kombos learned that St. Paisios the Athonite Mission in Nacogdoches, Texas, had been awarded an OCA Church Planting Grant. The news provided a joyful example of the missionary growth discussed throughout the gathering. The grant program supports the salary and benefits of a full-time priest, helping mission communities develop toward full parish life. ( oca.org ( https://www.oca.org/news/headline-news/missions-invited-to-apply-for-2027-planting-grants) )
Fr. Bogdan G. Bucur, a professor at St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary, offered two engaging presentations drawing on St. Isaac the Syrian and St. Macarius. His reflections on St. Isaac explored the “outrageousness of grace”—the boundless mercy of God and the challenge of allowing that mercy to shape our hearts and pastoral service.
His…
